Sweet start for Buka’s first ice cream training

Ice cream is a favourite treat for people of all ages, loved for its creamy texture and variety of flavors.

In the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, especially Buka, it is one of the top-selling commodities, and supplies often run out quickly, leaving many disappointed.

Now, a newly established local business, North Solomon Export Commodities [NSEC], is stepping into changing that.

This week, the company hosted a two-day training to teach locals how to make ice cream themselves, aiming to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports.

The first ice cream making training drew in thirty participants from Central and North Bougainville at the cost of a K100 registration fee.

The goal is not only to increase the supply of ice cream but also to empower locals to make their own ice cream using ingredients from their surroundings.

The training began with lessons on food safety and health standards, which are essential for ensuring the safety and quality of the ice cream. After that, participants learned how to make ice cream from local crops, nuts, and fruits.

NSEC Director Judith Raban explained that the company aims to add value to local farmers' products.

NSEC Vice Chairman John Pomis Tsirumits shared that these training sessions aim to contribute to Bougainville’s journey toward independence.

Participant, Rodney Semoso, an agriculture teacher at St. Mary's Asitavi Secondary School, praised NSEC for the training saying, the training has equipped him with the knowledge to teach his students about ice cream making and B Shake.

Another participant Lynmah Mareaviri, a young mother from Panguna, encouraged more people, especially women, to join NSEC to help improve their families' and communities' living standards.

NSEC hopes to see more locally produced ice cream in Buka and potentially in other regions of central and south Bougainville.

NSEC plans to sell their ice cream products during the 2025 Bougainville Cocoa Festival, scheduled for October 28th to October 30th at Hutjena Sports Oval in Buka.